In terms of home security, several access points need extra fortification. One that often gets overlooked is the garage door. Because attached garages are an extension of the home, garage door security is vital. While it’s estimated that only 9% of burglars use the garage door to enter a home, it’s still wise for homeowners to not overlook this critical access point. Here, Jaeger Lumber details what homeowners need to know about keeping their garages secure to ensure they feel safe and protected in their homes.

Use a Garage Door Opener or Keypad

While you may think that the garage door opener or keypad is just a luxury to conveniently open and close your garage door, its main purpose is to act as a security measure. That’s because if you can manually access your garage door by opening and closing it, that means an intruder can, too. When it comes to using a garage door opener or a keypad, tips we recommend include:

Continuously Update Garage Code

Much like a password on a computer, regularly changing the passcode on your garage door opener is ideal for enhancing security and safety.

Keep Garage Door Opener in a Secure Location

Automobiles that have access to garages but are generally kept outside should not have garage door openers left inside of them. Instead, the garage door opener should be kept inside once the homeowner keeps home.

Shut Off Power When Traveling

If you know you’ll be away from home for an extended period, we recommend turning off the power to the garage door so it’s inoperable until you get home.

Add Lights

Outdoor garage lights are excellent deterrents to any potential unwanted visitors. Motion sensor lights will illuminate as soon as they detect any movement in the designated area, making it much more difficult for an intruder to hide in the shadows. This threat generally causes intruders to stay away. To optimize lights and help keep your home safe, place them around or on top of the garage door.

Never Leave Your Garage Door Open

Because it provides direct access to your home, leaving the door of your attached garage open is the same as leaving your front door wide open. Even during the daytime, it’s wise to be conscious of when your garage door is open and unaccompanied. Possible intruders could be watching, waiting for their moment to execute their attack. We advise closing your garage door anytime you aren’t in the garage or directly outside.

Make Sure the Garage Door Functions Properly

Garage doors that function as intended not only help make life easier for homeowners but also increase home security. If garage doors are out of order, they may no longer serve as secure access points, threatening the safety of your home. To ensure garage doors remain secure, they must be properly maintained and serviced routinely.

Discover More About Garage Door Security at Jaeger Lumber

When it comes to garage door security and the safety of your home, rely on the experienced specialists at Jaeger Lumber. Serving clients located throughout New Jersey, we offer top-quality products and services designed to enhance the appeal and security of homes. Our garage door services will not only improve the look of your home but also provide you with added peace of mind. Contact us today for more information about our garage door offerings, as well as additional tips for keeping your home safe.